Unfortunately, we’ve all been there: so stressed out on vacation that when we return home we’re more exhausted than when we left. Why then even go?
Because there’s an answer to exhausting vacations: Fort Walton Beach, FL. Located on the Florida panhandle, along the Emerald Coast of the Gulf of Mexico and less than two hours’ drive from Mobile, Alabama and less than three hours from Tallahassee, Florida, it is home to pristine white-sand beaches as well as an aquarium marina, extensive golf courses and excellent restaurants. This seaside resort town has been voted “#1 Family Destination and Best Beach in the South” three years in a row by Southern Living magazine.
You have many options of where to stay when you visit this beautiful place. Perhaps you’re looking for a luxurious getaway, which you’ll find at beach resorts and spas. Or maybe you’re looking for a vacation rental, such as a beachfront condo or private residence, or possibly a motel or suites – Ft. Walton Beach offers a wide variety of accommodations to meet your needs.
You’ll never run out of things to do on your Fort Walton Beach vacation. Whether you’re looking to spend time on the water (scuba diving, snorkeling, water skiing, surfing, jet skiing, wind surfing, fishing) or seeing the local wildlife at Gulf Islands National Seashore, Fort Walton Beach offers something for everyone. If you feel like shopping, there are factory outlet stores at Silver Sands and unique boutiques at The Market Shops in Sandestin, as well as Santa Rosa Mall and Uptown Station.
Family outings include Florida’s Gulfarium Marine Show Aquarium, where you can meet star dolphins, watch the sea lion show and attend animal feeding demonstrations. There’s also plenty of history in Fort Walton Beach, including the Destin History & Fishing Museum, Inc., Heritage Park & Cultural Center, and the Emerald Coast Science Center.
A vacation to the “#1 Family Destination and Best Beach in the South” is truly a vacation. Whether you want to bask in the sun, ride the waves, browse local shops, or experience festive nightlife, Fort Walton Beach offers just what you need.